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What is an Education Business Partnership

Education Business Partnerships (EBPs) are organisations that support the education, training and development of young people by linking businesses and their employees with schools and colleges. EBPs deliver programmes that draw on the resources of the business world to help young people learn about the world of work, to develop skills that will enhance their employability, to raise their aspirations for the future and to achieve their chosen career goals. In London, EBPs are borough-based organisations.

The strategic context for Inspire's work

At national level there is an increasing emphasis on the need to better prepare young people for working life and for a curriculum that better meets the future needs of our economy. The 14-19 Educational Reforms reflect this by introducing vocational pathways for learners as an alternative or in addition to GCSEs and A-Levels.

There are now four learning pathways at 14-19: GCSEs and A-Levels, Apprenticeships, Diplomas and Foundation Learning - for those not yet ready to enter the other pathways. EPBs such as Inspire! have a mjor role to play in supporting schools and colleges to deliver the four learning pathways.

  • August 2004 - Schools required to provide work-related learning for all young people at Key Stage 4 (aged 14-16). Pupils must learn through, about and for work. See Secondary programmes.
  • August 2005 - All Key Stage 4 pupils have an entitlement to 5 days of Enterprise Education. See Secondary Programmes.
  • 2008 - 2011 - Roll out of the new Diploma, a qualification that combines theoretical study with practical experience. 14 Diplomas to be avaliable by 2011, covering different lines of learning, e.g. Creative and Media or Business Administration and Finance. Work experience is a core requirement for the Diploma. See Seconday Programmes.
  • 2008 - 2009 - Expansion of the Young Apprenticeships programme, an opportunity for 14 - 16 year olds to pursue industry - specific applied learning programmes alongside the National Curriculum. 2009 - 2010 Expansion and improvement of Apprenticeships by The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS). See Secondary Programmes.
  • 2010 - 2011 - Roll  out of Foundation Learning, the national suite of learning for 14 - 19 year old learners working at entry level 1 or level 1. Foundation Learning will include Personal and Social Development, Funcational Skill and Vocational/Subject Skills alongside Career Education and Information, Advice and Guidance.